Vikings' Kevin Williams wins Korey Stringer Good Guy Award

There is no official Kevin Williams farewell tour at Winter Park. It only feels that way.

For the second time this month, the longest-tenured current Vikings player was honored for his character and professionalism.

First, Williams' teammates made him the Ed Block Courage Award winner for sportsmanship. On Wednesday, the Twin Cities chapter of the Pro Football Writers of America named the 11th-year defensive tackle the 2013 Korey Stringer Good Guy Award winner for his cooperation with local media.

The award is named after the Vikings offensive tackle who died from heat exhaustion during 2001 training camp.

"Wow, I'm a guy who's becoming popular here the last few weeks in my old age," quipped Williams, 33.

The six-time Pro Bowler has started more games at defensive tackle than any Minnesota player, including Pro Football Hall of Famers (157) and John Randle (150). His 59 sacks rank eighth in team history and third among DTs.

Williams eschews the spotlight, but is always accountable to deliver hard truths that belie his soft Arkansas drawl.

"He is an example of how you want your players to be in all situations, after tough losses, big wins -- a very gracious guy," said coach Leslie Frazier.

Williams faces an uncertain future in Minnesota. He took a pay cut to return in 2013 and will be a free agent after the season.

He credited former Vikings defensive end Lance Johnstone for helping him develop as a reliable voice from the locker room.

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He also learned how not to behave from wide receiver and notorious media foil Randy Moss.

"I don't think I could have modeled myself after Randy too much, some of the stuff he did with you guys," Williams said.

Asked what advice he would give younger players about media relations, Williams replied that saying, "I don't know" is smarter than the alternative.

"You can't sit there and make up an answer or try to exaggerate something. Answer it truthfully," he said. "You (reporters) are going to do some digging. You're going to push us and try to fish for information, but be respectful and answer it the best you can without giving too much away or telling game plans."